Campbell Live's ratings boast after 'toughest week of our lives'

John Campbell is leaving Campbell Live - but is yet to announce when. Photo/Brett Phibbs

Outgoing TV show Campbell Live has thanked fans while boasting of its ratings success during "the toughest week of our lives".

Mediaworks announced a shake-up of TV3's 7pm show last week: it will be screening four nights a week with two hosts, with the changes taking place in around six weeks.

John Campbell, the show's host for 10 years, confirmed he was leaving the show but no final date has yet been confirmed.

The news came after a six-week review period that saw ratings climb and fans take to the streets to protest against the possible cancellation of Campbell Live.

Friday night's show was TV3's highest-rating show that night, earning 330,830 viewers. Campbell Live averaged 294,056 over the week, Throng.co.nz reported.

Staff took to social media to thank fans for their support - and boast of their ratings success.

Producer Pip Keane also called it "the toughest week of our lives".

To my @CampbellLiveNZ team. The show is ending but our pride isn't. Ending the toughest week of our lives on a high. pic.twitter.com/VKhuK4SmGK

— Pip Keane (@pipkeane) May 22, 2015

On Facebook, fans wondered why there was a need for change when ratings were so strong.

"Isn't it ridiculous, looking at those ratings Campbell Live should not be gone," wrote Sonia Simmons.

"Won't be watching tv3 anymore!!!! So gutted. Absolutely loved watching campbell live. Just wont be the same.. no more news for me!!," wrote Miller MNJ.

In its announcement of the changes, TV3 said the recent ratings improvements were unsustainable long-term.

While Campbell has remained silent about his departure, Campbell Live reporters have paid tribute to the presenter and the show on Twitter.

A big thanks to the Campbell Live Army who took us on the most amazing ride over the last few weeks. We owe u big time. If u see us say hi!

— Ali Ikram (@AliIkram) May 22, 2015

Very proud to work alongside such a dedicated bunch of people. Today more than ever.

— Lockdown Forsyth (@LachlanForsyth) May 21, 2015

Head in the clouds, heart & thoughts with my #teamcampbell. @JohnJCampbell & @CampbellLiveNZ I'll never give up. pic.twitter.com/jpIf6SobzR

— Tristram Clayton (@trisclayton) May 23, 2015

Sources say the changes mean Campbell Live's cast will be cut from 22 to 16. Rachel Smalley and Paul Henry are among the names rumoured to be in the running for co-hosting duties.

- nzherald.co.nz